Tips for Choosing the Right Orchestra

Use these tips to navigate our comprehensive list and find the perfect ensemble based on your goals and experience level:

• For the Aspiring Professional: If your student is aiming for a professional music career or is already in college/graduate school, look at the Pre-Professional category. These elite, tuition-free programs are designed for focused career training.

• For Developing Skills: Most students will fit into the Tiered Youth Orchestras. Look for ensembles with multiple levels (e.g., Concert, Symphony, Philharmonic) to ensure your player can join an appropriate group and grow into more advanced programs over time.

• For Beginners or Community Focus: If your priority is accessibility, community, or a low-pressure environment, focus on the Community & Open-Access Youth Programs. Programs often based on the El Sistema model (like YOLA or Boyle Heights Youth Orchestra) are excellent for beginners, are often free, and emphasize social development.

• For Adult or Volunteer Players: If you are an adult seeking a performance outlet without a career focus, the Community Symphonies (often all-volunteer) are ideal for continuing to play challenging repertoire.

• For Specialized Repertoire: The Chamber & Specialty Focus Orchestras are perfect for players interested in a specific instrument type (like Prelude String Orchestras) or a unique cultural mission (like Filipino American Symphony Orchestra).